Network components

Type: 3D-Model
Subjects: Tools
Tags: computer, Network Infrastructure
Created with: Unspecified
Language: English
Created by: onnoflach

Description of the model

This model represents a tactile computer network diagram composed of multiple 3D network components. The diagram illustrates a typical network structure starting from the internet and progressing through security and network infrastructure devices to end-user devices.

The network flow is organized as follows: Cloud → Firewall → Router → Layer 3 Switch → Layer 2 Switch → connected devices such as a server, laptop, printer, and WiFi access point. This structure helps demonstrate how data travels from the internet into a protected network and is then distributed to different devices within a local area network.

The model is designed for network education for blind students, allowing learners to explore network topology through touch. Each device includes interfaces for connecting network cables with RJ45 connectors, enabling students to physically build and modify the network structure during hands-on lessons.

By connecting the different components, students can better understand concepts such as network hierarchy, traffic flow, switching, routing, and network security.

Overview image showing nine tactile 3D models used in computer networking education: L2 switch, L3 switch, laptop, printer, router, server, WiFi access point, cloud, and firewall. — Overview of tactile 3D models representing common network devices used in computer networking lessons.

3D model of a WiFi access point symbol used in computer network diagrams. — WiFi access point used to provide wireless network connectivity.

3D model of a server used in a computer network. — Server used to provide services and resources to devices in a network.

3D model of a router used to connect different networks. — Router used to direct data traffic between networks.

3D model of a network printer — Network printer model that can hold a small piece of paper.

3D model of a laptop computer used in a network. — Laptop representing an end-user device in a computer network.

3D model of a Layer 3 network switch used for routing and switching. — Layer 3 switch used to route and forward traffic between networks.

3D model of a Layer 2 network switch used to connect devices in a local network. — Layer 2 switch used to connect multiple devices within a local area network.

3D model of a firewall used to protect a computer network. — Firewall device used to filter and secure network traffic.

3D model of a cloud symbol representing the internet in a network diagram. — Cloud symbol used to represent the internet or an external network.

Printing instructions and tips

Printer type
These models are designed for FDM/FFF 3D printers.

Recommended orientation
Place each model with the flat base on the build plate. This orientation provides the best stability and ensures the network interface openings remain accurate.

Layer height

Standard quality: 0.2 mm
Higher detail: 0.15 mm

Lower layer heights improve the tactile surface quality, which can be beneficial for educational use by blind students.

Infill

Recommended: 15–20% infill
Suitable patterns: Grid, Gyroid, or Cubic

This provides enough strength while keeping print times reasonable.

Supports

Most models do not require supports when printed on their base.

However, supports may be required for:

RJ45 interface openings
small overhangs around port areas

If supports are used, select “supports from build plate only” to simplify removal.

Material

Recommended materials:

PLA – easiest to print and suitable for classroom environments

Avoid very flexible materials, as they may reduce the accuracy of the RJ45 connection interfaces.

Print speed

Recommended speed:

40–60 mm/s

Slower speeds may improve surface quality for tactile exploration.

Bed adhesion

Normally no brim is required, but a 3–5 mm brim can improve adhesion on smaller printers.

Post-processing

After printing:

Remove any support material from the RJ45 interface openings
Check that network cables with RJ45 connectors fit properly
Light sanding may help if connectors feel tight

Educational use tip

These models are designed for tactile network education for blind students.
Each device includes interfaces for RJ45 network cables, allowing the components to be physically connected to demonstrate network topology, traffic flow, switching, routing, and network security.

Students can assemble the models to create a typical network structure such as:

Cloud → Firewall → Router → L3 Switch → L2 Switch → End devices (Server, Laptop, Printer, WiFi Access Point)